Sheffield United: Blades lodge two transfer bids

Chris O'Grady has been the subject of talks between Sheffield United and Brighton and Hove Albion � copyright : Blades Sports Photography

Published:00:00Thursday 08 January 2015

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Sheffield United’s attempt to recapture Chris O’Grady has taken a major step forward after manager Nigel Clough revealed talks are ongoing with Brighton and Hove Albion, writes James Shield.

The League One club, who The Star understands are also monitoring Scotland international Gary Mackay-Steven, signed O’Grady on loan towards the end of last year before he was recalled following a selection crisis at The AMEX Stadium.

But Clough, insisting Albion will rubber-stamp the striker’s move providing they identify a replacement, said: “I have not spoken to Chris (Hughton) but (managing director) Mal Brannigan has spoken to his counterpart down there. “Things are progressing but we are probably in the same situation as we were about six weeks ago when they want to get a striker in before they do anything. So we’ve got to be a bit patient.

“The intention all along (was to sign) and I don’t think it has changed. We are still hoping it is going to happen this month.”

Clough added: “Chris knows we want him and what we feel about him. Right from the summer, we have been chasing him now for six months and he knows he’s wanted here.

“But he is Brighton’s player at the moment and unless they say otherwise, we will have to live with that.”

Mackay-Steven, whose contract with Dundee United expires in the summer, also features on United’s wanted-list with Cardiff City’s John Brayford another person of interest. However, despite acknowledging Tannadice’s board of directors received “a bid or bids” earlier this month, Mackay-Steven last night stressed he was prepared to stay put until the end of the Scottish Premiership season.

Bramall Lane’s hierarchy are believed to have had an offer, worth around £100,000, rejected by the Tayside outfit.

Brayford, meanwhile, made 20 appearances for United after arriving on loan from City 12 months ago and was a member of the team which reached the FA Cup semi-final.

“Everyone knows what we think of John,” Clough added. “If Cardiff decide they want to move him on, they know where we are. I don’t think that’s any secret.”